Spanish officials promote volunteering to strengthen social cohesion

Social welfare officials in Spain are emphasizing the critical role of volunteering and networked cooperation to strengthen social cohesion and support vulnerable populations.

In Asturias, Social Rights Counselor Nerea Monroy closed the Meeting of Associations and Volunteering in Soto del Barco. Monroy highlighted that volunteering serves as a fundamental pillar for community life, complementing public services. She advocated for a strong public network to ensure accessible care for the elderly, people with disabilities, and families, stating that rights should not depend on income or location.

In Úbeda, approximately 80 participants gathered at the Hospital de Santiago for a conference focused on networked work and the promotion of volunteering. Organized by Red Úbeda Solidaria and the Úbeda City Council, the event aimed to analyze challenges in citizen participation. Local officials, including Natalia Pérez Merino and Ángela Hidalgo, stressed the necessity of collaboration between public administrations and third-sector entities to improve social inclusion and service delivery.